One year ago today, one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded struck off the coast of Japan and triggered a massive tsunami. Waves reached as far as 6 miles inland, claiming nearly 16,000 lives and causing billions of dollars in damage to roads, bridges, and buildings. The threat of nuclear meltdown at several of the country’s badly damaged reactors loomed large, and months of around-the-clock work was required to avoid catastrophe.
The United States sent help to assist in the search, rescue, and recovery efforts, and worked closely with Japanese officials in the days, weeks and months following the initial disaster. At the peak of Operation Tomodachi—our single, largest bilateral military operation with Japan ever—the Department of Defense had 24,000 personnel, 190 aircraft, and 24 Navy ships supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
President Obama, on March 17 of last year, explained that the Japanese people were not alone in their time of need:
Across the Pacific, they will find a hand of support extended from the United States as they get back on their feet. After all, we have an alliance that was forged more than a half century ago, and strengthened by shared interests and democratic values. Our people share ties of family, ties of culture, and ties of commerce. Our troops have served to protect Japan’s shores, and our citizens have found opportunity and friendship in Japan’s cities and towns.
Fonte: White House